Sight Letter of Credit (MT700) – Secure Your Trade Like the Top 1%
Ensure Secure & Reliable Global Trade Payments | 100+ LC-Secured Projects | Global SWIFT Bank Network Connected
⚠️ Have You Lost a Deal Due to Lack of Payment Guarantees?
Recently, an exporter lost $500,000 because no LC was in place. At NNRV, we structured a tailored LC in 48h, saving their next $3M deal. Don’t trade on blind trust. Secure every deal with confidence.
🧠 « Without NNRV’s LC, I would’ve lost my biggest contract. Their team is responsive and knows the game. »
What is a Sight Letter of Credit (LC)?
A Sight Letter of Credit (LC) is a widely used financial instrument in international trade that ensures payment is made immediately upon the presentation of compliant documents. It provides security for both buyers and sellers by guaranteeing that funds are available once the transaction terms are met.
At NNRV Trade Partners, we arrange the issuance of Sight LCs (MT700) through our global network of top-tier SWIFT-enabled financial institutions. We ensure your trade transactions are processed smoothly, securely, and in full compliance with ICC UCP 600 standards.
🧠 “Without NNRV’s LC, I would’ve lost my biggest contract. Their team is responsive and knows the game.” — Elena T., Pharma Trader
Key Benefits of Sight LC
✅ Immediate Payment – The seller receives payment promptly upon presenting the required shipping and trade documents.
✅ Reduced Risk – Buyers and sellers are protected from fraud, default, or financial instability of the counterparty.
✅ Enhanced Global Credibility – Businesses with a Sight LC gain trust from suppliers and financial institutions.
✅Compliance with UCP 600 – All LCs follow global banking standards and regulatory norms.
✅ Bank Guarantee Backing – The issuing bank commits to making the payment upon document verification.
✅ Backed by Trusted Banks – Issued by banks with high credit ratings and strong financial standing.
How Does a Sight Letter of Credit Work : Simple, Fast, Secure ?
- Buyer Requests LC Issuance – The buyer applies for the Sight LC with their bank, detailing transaction terms.
- Issuing Bank Sends LC to Seller’s Bank – The Sight LC is transmitted via SWIFT MT700 to the seller’s bank.
- Seller Ships Goods & Submits Documents – The seller ships the goods and presents compliant documents to their bank.
- Bank Verification & Immediate Payment – Once the issuing bank verifies that all conditions are met, payment is made immediately.
- Buyer Receives Goods – The transaction is completed as the buyer receives the shipped goods.
📂Documents Required for Sight LC Issuance
To facilitate the issuance of a Sight LC, we require the following documents:
📌 Proforma Invoice or Commercial Invoice – Detailing the trade terms between buyer and seller.
📌 Company Registration & Legal Documents – Business license, certificate of incorporation, and articles of association.
📌 Financial Statements – Last 2 years of audited reports to assess creditworthiness.
📌 Bank Details Account and Compliance Info – Information for transaction processing and compliance verification.
📌 Trade Agreement or Contract – Signed contract specifying delivery terms, payment conditions, and obligations.
🏦 Detailed Table: Approved Issuing Banks for Sight LCs (MT700)
We work with top-tier financial institutions and banking partners for the issuance of Sight Letters of Credit (MT700), ensuring global coverage and reliability.
Specialized Sight LC Issuing Banks for Immediate Payment Transactions
| Rank | Bank Name | SWIFT Code | Country | LC Types | Amount Range | Term | Issuance Fee | Processing Time | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TIER 1: PREMIUM BANKS (AAA/AA RATED) | |||||||||
| 1 | HSBC Hong Kong | HSBCHKHHHKH | Hong Kong | Sight LC, Irrevocable Sight LC | $1M – $50M | 90-365 days | 1.0% – 3.5% | 5-7 business days | Global acceptance, MT700 format, preferred by European/American beneficiaries |
| 2 | BNP Paribas | BNPAHKHH | Hong Kong | Sight LC, Confirmed Sight LC | $1M – $100M | 90-365 days | 1.0% – 3.5% | 4-7 business days | European backing, strong correspondent network, high acceptance in EU |
| 3 | ICBC Hong Kong | ICBKHKHH | Hong Kong | Sight LC, Irrevocable Sight LC, Transferable Sight LC | $1M – $75M | 90-365 days | 1.0% – 3.8% | 5-8 business days | Largest Chinese bank, strong global network, preferred for Asia-Pacific trade |
| 4 | DBS Bank | DHBKHKHH | Hong Kong | Sight LC, Transferable Sight LC | $1M – $50M | 90-365 days | 1.0% – 3.5% | 3-5 business days | Fastest issuance in Tier 1, excellent for SEA trade routes |
| 5 | Crédit Agricole CIB | AGRIMQMXXXX | France | Sight LC, Confirmed Sight LC | $1M – $75M | 90-365 days | 1.0% – 3.5% | 5-8 business days | European credibility, strong compliance standards, preferred for Africa/ME trade |
| 6 | Alior Bank SA | ALBPPLPWXXX | Poland | Sight LC, Irrevocable Sight LC | $1M – $25M | 90-365 days | 1.0% – 3.5% | 4-6 business days | Strong EU profile, excellent for Eastern European beneficiaries |
| TIER 2: STRONG COMMERCIAL BANKS (A/BBB RATED) | |||||||||
| 7 | Standard Chartered Bank | SCBLHKHHXXX | Hong Kong | Sight LC, Restricted Sight LC | $500K – $25M | 90-365 days | 1.5% – 4.0% | 4-7 business days | Emerging market specialist, strong in Africa/Asia, excellent correspondent network |
| 8 | CTBC Bank | CTCBHKHHXXX | Hong Kong | Sight LC, Sight LC with Tolerance | $500K – $25M | 90-365 days | 1.5% – 4.0% | 3-6 business days | Fast processing, flexible documentation requirements, preferred in Asia |
| 9 | Dah Sing Bank | DSBAHKHHXXX | Hong Kong | Sight LC via SWIFT MT700 | $500K – $20M | 90-365 days | 1.5% – 4.0% | 4-6 business days | Hong Kong/China trade specialist, strong for Chinese beneficiaries |
| 10 | Point Bank UK | POITGB21XXX | UK | Sight LC, Confirmed Sight LC | $500K – $25M | 90-365 days | 1.5% – 4.0% | 4-7 business days | UK regulatory framework, preferred for Commonwealth trade routes |
| 11 | UCO Bank | UCBAHKHHXXX | Hong Kong | Sight LC, Irrevocable Sight LC | $500K – $20M | 90-365 days | 1.8% – 4.5% | 5-8 business days | Indian government backing, excellent for South Asian trade |
| TIER 3: SPECIALIZED & FLEXIBLE ISSUERS | |||||||||
| 12 | ACE Investment Bank | AIBMMYKLXXX | Malaysia | Sight LC, Pre-Advised Sight LC | $250K – $15M | 90-365 days | 2.0% – 4.0% | 3-5 business days | Fastest issuance in directory, email+SWIFT delivery, flexible terms |
| 13 | Standard Commerce Bank | STDMDMDXXX | USA | Sight LC via SWIFT MT700 | $250K – $15M | 90-365 days | 2.0% – 4.0% | 3-6 business days | US regulatory framework, multi-delivery options (SWIFT/email/paper) |
| 14 | Digital Commercial Bank | DCBAUS33XXX | USA | Sight LC, Confirmed Sight LC, Sight LC with Red Clause | $250K – $20M | 90-365 days | 2.0% – 4.5% | 3-5 business days | Digital-first approach, blockchain verification option, expedited processing |
| 15 | Unibanque | UNBQGB22 | UK | Sight LC, Unrestricted Sight LC | $250K – $15M | 90-365 days | 2.0% – 4.0% | 4-7 business days | Flexible beneficiary requirements, UK regulation, good for first-time traders |
| 16 | United Bank for Investment | UNTVIQBAXXX | Iraq | Sight LC, Restricted Sight LC | $250K – $15M | 90-365 days | 2.5% – 5.0% | 5-9 business days | Middle East specialist, excellent for oil/gas/commodity transactions |
| 17 | Euro Exim Bank | EULULCL1XXX | Saint Lucia | Sight LC with Tolerance | $100K – $25M | 90-365 days | 2.5% – 5.0% | 3-5 business days | No collateral required for qualified applicants, offshore benefits |
| TIER 4: BANQUES OFFSHORE / FLEXIBLES | |||||||||
| 16 | Credito Agricole Italiano | CRPPIT2PXXX | Italy | Sight LC | – | Immediate Payment | 1% – 3% | 2-3 Days | A-rated |
| 17 | Credito Valtellinese SPA | BPCVIT2SXXX | Italy | Sight LC | – | Immediate Payment | 1% – 3% | 2-3 Days | A-rated |
| 18 | Golden Touch Investment Bank | – | – | Sight LC | – | Immediate Payment | – | – | SVG |
| 19 | International Commercial Bank (South Sudan) | ICOCSSJBXXX | South Sudan | Sight LC | – | Immediate Payment | – | – | SVG |
| 20 | Citizens Bank Guyana | – | Guyana | Sight LC | – | Immediate Payment | – | – | SVG |
| 21 | Republic Bank | – | Guyana | Sight LC | – | Immediate Payment | – | – | SVG |
| 22 | Scotiabank | – | Guyana | Sight LC | – | Immediate Payment | – | – | SVG |
| 23 | Standard Bank (Comores) | – | Comoros | Sight LC | – | Immediate Payment | – | – | SVG |
| 24 | Slovenská Sporiteľňa | – | Slovakia | Sight LC | – | Immediate Payment | – | – | SVG |
SIGHT LC ADVANTAGES
- Immediate Payment: Payment is made upon presentation of compliant documents
- Simplified Process: No need for a draft/bill of exchange, reducing complexity
- Direct Bank Obligation: Bank undertakes to pay upon document compliance
- Cash Flow Management: Ensures prompt payment for the exporter
- Risk Reduction: Minimizes payment delays and default risks
- Competitive Edge: Enables offering immediate terms to buyers or obtaining from suppliers
- Capital Equipment Acquisition: Facilitates major purchases with immediate payment
SIGHT LC SPECIALIZED STRUCTURES
| Structure Type | Description | Best For | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Sight | Payment upon document compliance | General trade, mid-value goods | Simplicity, immediate payment |
| Transferable Sight | Can be transferred to suppliers/manufacturers | Trading companies, intermediaries | Allows payment term pass-through to suppliers |
| Confirmed Sight | Secondary bank adds guarantee | High-risk countries, new relationships | Reduces country/bank risk for exporter |
| Green/Sustainable | Special terms for environmental projects | Renewable energy, sustainable trade | Preferential rates, immediate payment for green products |
| Supplier Finance Enabled | Integration with supplier financing programs | Supply chain financing | Early payment options for suppliers |
| Multi-Drawing | Multiple shipments against single LC | Ongoing supply relationships | Reduced documentation, consistent terms |
| Project-Linked | Terms aligned with project implementation | Infrastructure, construction | Payment schedule matched to project phases |
SIGHT LC DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS
| Required Documents | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Details goods and prices | Must match LC terms exactly |
| Bill of Lading/AWB | Proof of shipment | Clean B/L required, carrier-issued |
| Packing List | Itemizes shipment contents | Weight/dimensions must match B/L |
| Certificate of Origin | Confirms product origin | Often required for customs/duties |
| Inspection Certificate | Verifies quality/quantity | When specified in LC terms |
| Insurance Document | Covers transit risks | Required for CIF shipments |
| Installation Certificate | Confirms equipment setup | For capital equipment/machinery |
| Completion Certificate | Verifies project milestones | For project-linked structures |
| Technical Specifications | Confirms product standards | For industrial/specialized goods |
| Environmental Compliance | Verifies sustainability standards | For green/sustainable structures |
SIGHT LC ISSUANCE PROCESS
- Comprehensive Application: Submit detailed application with sight specifics
- Enhanced Due Diligence: Review applicant’s creditworthiness and transaction details
- Term Sheet Negotiation: Finalize payment conditions and special requirements
- Structured LC Draft: Review and approve comprehensive LC text with payment obligations
- Fee Payment & Collateral: Arrange fees and any required security/collateral
- SWIFT Issuance: LC transmitted via secure MT700 message with sight payment terms
- Advising/Confirmation: Receiving bank advises and potentially confirms the credit
- Compliance Verification: Thorough document checking against LC conditions
- Immediate Payment Execution: Prompt payment upon presentation of compliant documents
SIGHT LC TERM OPTIONS
| Term Length | Typical Usage | Industries | Financing Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate Payment | Standard trade transactions | General merchandise, consumer goods | Discounting, forfaiting |
| Immediate Payment | Extended manufacturing cycles | Consumer goods, electronics | Discounting, forfaiting |
| Immediate Payment | Seasonal demand cycles | Agriculture, fashion | Inventory financing, seasonal loans |
| Immediate Payment | Significant capital projects | Construction, infrastructure | Project finance, bridge loans |
| Immediate Payment | Complex manufacturing/implementation | Heavy machinery, industrial plants | Long-term loans, capital leasing |
| Immediate Payment | Long-term infrastructure/development | Public works, energy | Project bonds, syndicated loans |
SIGHT LC PRICING STRUCTURE
- Issuance Fee: Typically 0.25% – 2% of LC amount, covers administrative costs
- Documentary Credit Fee: Charged for LC confirmation, typically 0.25% – 1%
- Discounting Fees: If discounting option is utilized, additional fees may apply
- Commitment Fees: For long-term LCs, a fee may be charged on undrawn portions
- Amendment Fees: Charges for any changes to the original LC terms
- Collateral Costs: Costs associated with securing the LC, if applicable
SIGHT LC RISK MITIGATION
| Risk Type | Mitigation Strategy | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Credit Risk | Obtain financials, credit reports | Regular credit assessments |
| Country Risk | Use confirmed LCs | Secondary bank guarantee |
| Documentary Risk | Thorough document checking | Strict compliance verification |
| Market Risk | Hedge currency/interest rate exposure | Forward contracts, swaps |
| Operational Risk | Establish robust internal controls | Regular audits, staff training |
| Legal Risk | Ensure compliance with local laws | Regular legal reviews |
SIGHT LC COMPLIANCE
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML): Strict adherence to AML regulations
- Know Your Customer (KYC): Comprehensive KYC procedures
- Sanctions Screening: Regular checks against sanctions lists
- Environmental Regulations: Compliance with green/sustainable standards
- Documentary Compliance: Ensuring all documents meet LC terms
- Reporting Requirements: Adherence to local and international reporting standards
SIGHT LC CASE STUDIES
Case Study 1: Capital Equipment Purchase
Background: A manufacturing company needed to upgrade its machinery to increase production capacity.
Solution: A Sight LC allowed the company to pay for the equipment immediately, ensuring prompt delivery and installation.
Outcome: The company successfully upgraded its machinery, increasing production by 30% and paying for the equipment without straining cash flow.
Case Study 2: Infrastructure Project
Background: A construction firm won a contract for a major infrastructure project with delayed revenue generation.
Solution: A Sight LC with multiple installment payments matched to project milestones.
Outcome: The firm completed the project on time, with payments aligned to project phases, ensuring smooth cash flow management.
Case Study 3: Seasonal Business
Background: An agricultural company needed financing for seasonal crops, with revenue generated post-harvest.
Solution: A Sight LC allowed the company to finance crop production and pay immediately.
Outcome: The company successfully managed its seasonal cash flow, ensuring timely payments and maximizing profitability.
SIGHT LC TRENDS
- Digital Transformation: Increasing use of digital platforms for LC issuance and management
- Green Financing: Growing demand for sustainable trade finance solutions
- Supply Chain Integration: Integration of LCs with supply chain financing programs
- Regulatory Compliance: Enhanced focus on compliance with international trade regulations
- Risk Management: Advanced risk mitigation strategies to protect against market volatility
HOW TO PROCEED
- Select your preferred Sight LC issuing bank from our directory
- Complete our specialized Sight LC application form
- Submit required KYC documentation
- Review and approve your draft LC text
- Upon fee payment, your Sight LC will be issued via SWIFT MT700
For urgent Sight LC requirements or specific inquiries, please contact our Trade Finance desk.
🎯 Why Use a Sight LC?
| 🔒 Feature | ✅ Benefit |
|---|---|
| Immediate Payment | Cash security for seller |
| Risk Transfer | Bank assumes buyer default risk |
| Credibility Boost | Gain trust with global suppliers |
| Legal Framework | Compliant with UCP 600 |
| SWIFT Issuance | MT700 guaranteed processing |
🛠️ Our 5-Step Process
Submit your trade documents
We assess and tailor your LC
You approve the draft
Pay fees & bank processes
LC issued via SWIFT MT700
💬 “NNRV helped us issue an LC from an EU bank in just 3 days. We secured a €1.2M buyer.” – Mona K., Agroexport
🔍 Sight LC vs Other Instruments
| Instrument | Trigger | Best Use | Seller Protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sight LC | Compliant Docs | Direct trades | 🔒🔒🔒🔒🔒 |
| SBLC | Buyer default | Risk backup | 🔒🔒 |
| Bank Guarantee | Contract breach | Tenders/Leases | 🔒🔒🔒 |
Why Choose NNRV Trade Partners for Sight LC Issuance?
🔒 100% SWIFT-Based Issuance – All LCs transmitted securely via MT700.
🌍 Global Banking Partnerships – Access to an extensive network of financial institutions.
🔒 Secure Transactions – Compliance with ICC UCP 600 guidelines for trade finance.
📈 Customized Trade Solutions – Tailored LC structures to fit your specific business needs.
⏳ Fast Processing – Streamlined issuance process with quick turnaround times.
📑 Full Documentation Support – Guidance through the entire trade finance process.
💲 Important Notes on Fees
LC fees depend on:
Value of the transaction
LC structure (sight/usance/confirmed)
Bank’s internal compliance policies
🔹 For precise pricing, speak with our structuring experts.
🧠 Real Testimonials
“We saved our $4M export deal thanks to NNRV.”
Ali B., Textile Importer – Maurice
“They helped us structure our first LC and secure a €1.2M buyer.”
ViViane D., Seti Export – EU
“Professional, fast, and transparent. Best trade finance partner.”
FREG M., Construction Materials – Asia
📚 What Makes Us Different?
✔️ Global Bank Access via SWIFT
✔️ Certified in 40+ Jurisdictions
✔️ ICC-Verified Structuring
✔️ “Accepted or Refunded” Guarantee
✔️ Custom Terms – Any Sector, Any Country
📌 From $1M to $100M+ LC deals structured with precision
❓ Top 5 FAQ – Answered by Experts
1. Can a new company apply for a Sight LC?
Yes. We support startups and SMEs with proper documentation.
2. How fast is LC issuance?
Usually 1–5 business days after all documents and fees are received.
3.What if documents don’t match exactly?
The LC may be delayed or rejected. We pre-verify all your documents to avoid discrepancies.
4. Can I get funds before shipment?
Yes, via Red/Green Clause LC — pre-shipment financing is possible.
5. Are Sight LCs accepted globally?
Absolutely. When issued under UCP 600 and via MT700 SWIFT, they’re universally recognized.
6. What happens if my documents aren’t perfect?
That’s why we pre-verify everything with you before submission.
7.What are the risks associated with a Sight LC and how can they be mitigated?
Risks include credit risk, country risk, documentary risk, market risk, operational risk, and legal risk. Mitigation strategies include obtaining financials, using confirmed LCs, thorough document checking, hedging, establishing robust internal controls, and ensuring compliance with local laws.
8.What are the compliance requirements for a Sight LC?
Compliance requirements include AML regulations, KYC procedures, sanctions screening, environmental regulations, documentary compliance, and reporting requirements.
9.Can you provide case studies of successful Sight LCs?
Yes, case studies include capital equipment purchase, infrastructure project, and seasonal business financing, demonstrating the effective use of Sight LCs in various scenarios.
10.What are the current trends in Sight LCs?
Trends include digital transformation, green financing, supply chain integration, regulatory compliance, and advanced risk management strategies.
🔗 Related Services
📖 Strategic Blog Posts
How LCs Saved 10 African Exporters from Payment Fraud
SBLC, LC, or Bank Guarantee: What’s Best for Your Trade Deal?
Step-by-Step LC Guide: From Application to SWIFT MT700
Get Your Sight LC Today!
Ensure seamless international trade with a Sight Letter of Credit (MT700). Contact NNRV Trade Partners today to discuss your trade finance needs and secure a reliable LC issuance.
🚀 Secure Your Trade Transaction Now
🔐 Whether you’re exporting $1M or $100M+, let NNRV Trade Partners protect your deal.
📩 Book a Free Pre-Diagnosis Today
☎️ Talk to an Expert | 🌍 Trusted in 40+ Countries | ✅ 100% SWIFT LC Delivery